Is Siddaramaiah's Chair Really Strong and Steady?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah asserts his position's strength amidst political jabs.
- The opposition questions the stability of leadership in Karnataka.
- Shivakumar faces scrutiny over perceived humility in the assembly.
- The dynamic interactions highlight ongoing political rivalries.
- Speaker Khader emphasizes focusing on important issues for North Karnataka.
Belagavi, Dec 11 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asserted in the Legislative Council on Thursday that his chair is “strong and steady,” in response to jabs from the opposition after House staff were seen adjusting his chair in the Upper House.
The situation arose when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stood to deliver a statement. Noticing that his chair was misaligned, he requested staff to reposition it, as he was having trouble standing and addressing the assembly.
BJP MLC Hanumanth Nirani remarked that even the Chief Minister seemed to be struggling since his microphone was not properly set up.
Siddaramaiah replied, emphasizing that regardless of one’s position—“even if one is the Prime Minister,” issues should be articulated when faced.
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, then commented that the CM’s chair appeared to be 'shaky' lately.
The Chief Minister quickly countered that his “chair was not shaky.” He said, “First, check whether your chair is shaky. My chair is strong and steady,” highlighting the stability of his position.
As BJP leaders continued to imply that his chair lacked strength in the current political landscape, Siddaramaiah maintained a smile, stating, “I know. When there is trouble, it should be mentioned. Now it’s alright.”
In the meantime, the BJP turned its attention to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding a leadership dispute in the Legislative Assembly after he folded his hands towards the opposition benches.
Former minister and BJP MLA V. Sunil Kumar teased him, saying Shivakumar was exhibiting “too much humility” in the House.
“We have a certain image of you. If you suddenly soften, what should we think?” he questioned.
Sunil Kumar also referenced a famous Kannada poem, “Kaanada Kadalige Hambaliside Mana”—meaning “My heart longs for the unseen ocean”—and added, “Similarly, Shivakumar is longing for whether he will get the chair one day.”
Senior BJP MLA and former minister S. Suresh Kumar remarked that nowadays leaders frequently undergo image makeovers and receive ongoing advice. “Is this part of that?” he questioned. Shivakumar responded to the jabs with a smile.
Speaker U.T. Khader urged members to remain focused on the ongoing discussions surrounding critical issues affecting North Karnataka.